Every parent knows that children can make mistakes. However, a single mistake should not negatively impact the rest of their lives. If your child is currently facing criminal charges, you need an experienced criminal defense lawyer serving Richmond to protect their freedoms and future prospects.
Silver Law Firm has over 40 years of combined legal experience and familiarity in managing a wide number of juvenile criminal cases. We can defend your child from criminal charges while safeguarding their privacy and well-being.
Contact our offices today to speak to a juvenile defense lawyer serving Richmond. Time is of the essence in criminal cases, so don’t delay.
Why Your Child Needs a Juvenile Defense Lawyer
Juvenile crimes may have lesser punishments than adult crimes, but they can still negatively impact your child’s life. Minors with juvenile convictions may face difficulty getting into schools or holding certain types of employment. Criminal proceedings can also upset your child’s educational trajectory and harm their social relationships.
A juvenile defense attorney can work to mitigate the worst consequences from a juvenile conviction and ensure that your child has a path to rehabilitation rather than harsh criminal sentencing. Silver Law Firm can work to have your child’s case dismissed or secure a charge reduction for a lesser punishment.
For a free legal consultation with a juvenile defense lawyer serving Richmond, call (510) 995-0000
Types of Juvenile Crimes in Richmond
In California, juvenile crimes can be broadly split into two kinds of offenses. Status offenses are acts that are specifically illegal due to the individual’s status as an underage minor. Common status offenses include truancy (skipping school) or underage drinking.
Delinquent acts are acts that would be criminal regardless of whether a minor committed them or not. Common delinquent acts in California include those listed below:
- Vandalism
- Trespassing
- Shoplifting
- Petty or grand theft
- Joyriding
- Drug possession
- Weapons offenses (e.g., gun or knife crime)
- Assault and battery
Richmond Juvenile Defense Lawyer Near Me (510) 995-0000
Differences Between Juvenile and Adult Justice Systems in California
California recognizes the need to hold adults and minors to different standards, so there are important differences between the two justice systems.
Juvenile System Focuses on Rehabilitation
The primary difference in the two systems is their purpose. Adult criminal systems focus on punishment and deterrence, while the juvenile system prioritizes rehabilitation. The goal of the juvenile system is to rehabilitate offenders and reintegrate them into society as law-abiding individuals.
Terminology for Minor Offenders is Different
The two systems also use different terminology to describe offenders. Minors technically don’t get “convicted” for crimes. Instead, they receive a “sustained petition,” which is effectively their version of “guilty.”`
Juvenile Proceedings Don’t Have a Jury
The two systems also differ in their structure and proceedings. Minors aren’t entitled to a jury trial and instead have a judge decide their case at an adjudication hearing. After that, the case moves to a disposition to decide sentencing and punishment.
Click to contact our Richmond Criminal Defense Lawyers today
Punishments for Juvenile Crimes
The juvenile justice system typically tries to avoid incarceration or confinement as punishment for underage crimes. Instead, juveniles can usually secure alternative punishments, such as the following:
- Community service
- Informal probation
- Counseling and therapy
- Work programs
- Diversion programs
- House arrest/electronic monitoring
- Civil restitution and fines
In extreme cases, minors may be subject to confinement in a juvenile institution for monitoring and rehabilitation. A Richmond juvenile crimes lawyer can work towards securing alternative punishments for your child to preserve their freedoms and privileges to the greatest extent possible.
Complete a Free Case Evaluation form now
Can Juveniles Be Charged as Adults in California?
Under certain circumstances, juveniles can be charged as adults for specific crimes. When charged as an adult, the minor will appear in adult criminal court and can be subject to adult criminal penalties, such as prison.
According to California WIC 707, minors who are 16 or 17 years old can have their cases transferred to adult courts for serious violent crimes, such as robbery, assault with a deadly weapon, rape, or murder. Judges have discretion to transfer cases and may do so based on the following factors:
- The age of the defendant
- The type of criminal offense
- The sophistication behind the crime
- Lack of guilt or remorse
- Prior criminal history
- Other circumstances surrounding the crime
In addition to prison, serious minor offenders may be subject to other adult criminal penalties, such as registration as a sex offender for sex crimes. If your child is being charged as an adult, the stakes are even higher, and the need for an attorney is more dire.
Silver Law Firm: Juvenile Defense Lawyer Serving Richmond, CA
At Silver Law Firm, we believe in second chances. Juvenile offenders shouldn’t have the course of their life determined by some act they committed while young and immature. We promise to use every tool in our arsenal and will leave no stone unturned until we have found a legal strategy that leads to the best possible outcome for your child.
Send our firm a message today or call us by phone to schedule a case consultation with a juvenile defense lawyer serving Richmond.
Call or text (510) 995-0000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form